Campaign of the Month:
January 2015

Skies of Glass

Continuing to prepare your group for their upcoming journey, Doyenne Nazena gathers you all for for one final lesson. As before, please feel free to post any in character questions or comments down below and any out of character questions or comments in the forum thread .

The Dreambound

Nazena’s study comes into hazy view around you. You cannot help but think the disorientation passes faster this time, or perhaps you’re simply getting used to it. You look around and nce again notice Jayden and Ashling are not present, though Ethan is here this time. The Doyenne herself already stands in the center of the room. She turns towards Simon and Ethan.

“Simothi, Torsirserr, I assume your companions still need to sleep, do they not?” A cold note of annoyance in her voice.

“My apologies for their absence, Doyenne. Jayden is resting little these days.” Ethan says, as politely as he can.

Simon speaks up, “I’ll make sure to once again pass on your teachings and next time-”

“This will be our final lesson.” Nazena says, interrupting Simon. “And I think it best we dive straight in, I have every confidence in you to teach your fellows.” Simon nods to her. Nazena begins pacing around the center of the room as she continues. “Today will be more complex than any of our other lessons. We will be discussing the dreambound and the dreaming magics we and the dreamborn can wield. I expect there will be many questions, and I want to make sure we touch upon them all. Unless there is anything that must be dealt with before…?” Nazena looks around the room questioningly. Seeing no response, Nazena continues.”Then let us begin. We’ll start with the origins of the dreambound. The first of us were dreamwalkers who dove deeply enough into the dreaming realms that they began to tap its power, learning from the dreamborn natives. Much like druids bond themselves to the land, we bound ourselves to the dream itself…”

Nazena speaks at length, teaching the party and all those gathered of the Dreambound and their powers, as well as broadly discussing the powers of Dreambound Magic.

“To be clear, I can speak only of what I know. The greatest powers of my peers and even some of the more esoteric dreaming magics are likely unknown to me. Some of the greatest powers of the dreambound noted in my texts may even only be theories, so few ever reach such heights of power…” The Doyenne pauses for a moment as she sits down in her chair, an errant thought distracting her before she dismisses it. “Now then, are there any questions?”

The room is silent for a moment. “There’s…much in there to unpack.” Simon finally says, “But, one question that may honestly be irrelevant strikes me the most – the Dreambound can collect dreamstuff? The same thing that faeries gather for their Queen?”

The Doyenne lets out a short laugh. “You would focus on that.” Nazena nods. “Yes, we can. Though, truth be told, I’m not sure who learned to do it first. Given the Faerie Queen has been a part of our world for time immemorial, I’m inclined to believe we stole that trick from her. Either way, we tend to do it infrequently, given the process leaves the sleeper drained.”

“Much like when the faeries drain a sleeper?” Simon asks.

The Doyenne nods. “Very similar, yes. Back when Keld used to war with the other nations, my grandmother would drain dreamstuff from crippled or sickly slaves until they expired. But, today, I refuse to visit such tortures upon my own people or our allies.” Nazena waves her hand as she speaks, as if dismissing the very notion.

”...comforting.” Ethan says under his breath, though loudly enough to be heard across the room.

“Wow, it super sounds like your grand ma-ma and my daddy would really get along.” Jessy says, her distaste obvious.

“I might be diving be off topic, but given the amount of time I’ve spent studying the fae I feel I must ask it.” Simon says, pressing on despite the distractions. “The faeries use dreamstuff as a sort of food, much like the nectarthat bees gather. I’ve also read treatises examining the substance that theorized Oona might use it to learn the dreams of influential individuals. I’m very curious, what exactly do the Dreambound use it for?”

Nazena pauses for a moment, gathering her thoughts. “It has four uses for us. Most commonly, we use it to enchant Dreamborn items – that is, make enchantments capable of holding Dreaming magics. Much like the few Dreamshards possessed among you. Secondly, while on the Dreamscape itself, a Dreambound can be easily warp dreamstuff into most any raw mundane material you could desire. How the faeries feed on it while yet on Creed, I’m uncertain. But, given the Dreamscape offers no food or other survival materials, save what you might find in dreams, it can often be a worthwhile backup. Third, we can use it to view the dream it was drawn from, but this is generally viewed as a waste given how easily we can accomplish this with other methods. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we use it make dream stones.”

“Dream stones?” Ethan asks.

“White banded purple agate, Ethan.” Simon says, “Do you recall how the veins in our Dreamshards turn white when we use it? It looks much like that.”

Nazena nods. “Indeed it does. Black banded purple agate is tied to nightmares and, more specifically, the Nightmare itself, and is known as Kalmani – the dark gem. It has fewer uses that dream stones, but is necessary for some of the darker dreaming magics. The spinning indicates he’s not on the same plane as you.”

“Doyenne,” Simon begins, a hesitancy in his voice. “I’m a bit confused. I thought you said the Dreamsage was hoarding the dream stone Dreambound need to traverse the Dreamscape? If you can make it…surely the dreams of vermin or something else could be used, if it’s such a necessity? Or the dreams of Crafters or other Beings of Power, given we’re resilient to the lethargic effects?”

“That’s…” Nazena pauses, weighing the question. “Yes, I suppose that’s worth clarifying. I said Bayul was hoarding purple agate, and I literally meant the raw stone itself – Dreamer’s Rest has the greatest abundance of the stone on Creed. While dream stones exist in nature, most of it is made by carefully combining quantities of the dreamstuff with that purple agate. Further, dreamstuff is a byproduct of imagination, something most non-sentient species lack in the sufficient quantity we would need.

“Beings of power…we’re getting quite off topic, but I suppose that’s worth discussing as well. Beings of power don’t feel the lethargic after being harvested for dreamstuff quite simply because you’re extremely difficult to gather any real power from. The same is true for anyone of sufficient strength – your minds are just too resilient to the process. I imagine that faeries almost purely do it out of Oona’s interest in what your dreams contain, as the dreamstuff itself would contain little to no power – that is, little to no nutrition for them. But fragments of the dreams could still be viewed.”

“Fascinating. I had no idea, thank you, I’ll have to get that gem back to the Houses.” Simon says, obviously pleased with the revelation. “If you don’t mind, that is?”

“So, wait, gotta jump in here.” Jessy says, leaning forward in her seat. “Getting this dreamstuff, you’re literally tapping a dude’s imagination like you’d drink blood from a vein? And it fuckin’ kills people? I’m super shocked there aren’t more of you in Klurikon, seems like you’d fit in.”

Nazena sighs. “Being Dreambound requires an emotional balance that many cannot muster, something Klurikon does not encourage. We are the stewards of dreams and the caretakers of imagination, those who seek this path for wealth or fame often falter on their first step. That said…” Nazena pauses for a moment,”yes, even our small family has those who favor cruelty and malice. Some of our powers can attack a creature at their most vulnerable, that sort of skill inevitably attracts a darker sort. I am not surprised you would think your homeland a natural fit for some of us.”

The Doyenne looks around the room. “Are there any other questions?”

In character questions for Nazena can be raised in the comments section below, out of character questions can be raised in the forums. Any questions raised by the NPCs have effectively been answered already and included in the Nightmare section on the Dreamscape page. Once Nazena has fielded all of the groups’ questions, she prepares to send the gathered home.

“Any others? No?” Met with silence, the Doyenne nods. “Very well then. With that, I bring our final lesson to a close. From here on, I will be refocusing on my duties to the council – return to my manor when you’re ready to depart into the Dreamscape. Hopefully, with this information in hand, you will stand better prepared for what you might face than the fool Kradak did.” Nazena rises from her chair and moves to the center of the room. “Until then, champions.”

Nazena claps her hands together, and the wave of violet power quickly sends you back to your own dreams.

Continuing to prepare your group for their upcoming journey, Doyenne Nazena gathers you all for another lesson. As before, please feel free to post any in character questions or comments down below and any out of character questions or comments in the forum thread .

The Dreamborn

Once again your find yourself in Nazena’s study, your disoriented mind quickly waking up to the familiar room. You scan the room, seeing your friends slowly coming to in the chairs around you. Though, you quickly realize that your group is smaller than it should be. Jayden, Ashling, and Ethan are all missing, and the Doyenne herself seems absent as well, only her owl occupying her tall chair by the fire.

“Doyenne? Where are my fellows?” Simon asks tentatively towards the ceiling, having noticed the absence as well. ”...assuming you can even hear me.”

The owl hoots loudly at Simon as if in response, surprising the wizard. Simon quickly brings a bit of green energy flaring to life around his hand, as he intones a quick spell.

“I’m sorry, could you say that again?” Simon asks towards the bird. The owl hoots once again towards him, though this time he nods in understanding. “Apparently Nazena has been unable to reach any of my companions and is trying one last time.” Simon says towards the room, more than a hint of concern obvious in his voice.

“I’m sure everything’s alright, Simon. Jayden seems to be trying every avenue he can to bring Ashling along with us, they may simply be busy.” Fire-Feather says, attempting to comfort the elf. “He even asked me recently about draconic magics, if anything there might be able to help.”

“Oh, we super could!” Jessy said, obviously eager to contribute. “Though…I mean, she’d need to make a draconic pact and become a dragon disciple and…actually, wait, Fire-Feather, would that help?”

Fire-feather shakes her head. “I honestly don’t know. But my inclination would be no, I dob’t believe even master dragon disciples become beings of power. Though it probably would make her substantially more resilient to the Dreamtide…but, really, it would take her years to achieve such a state, if not decades.”

Minutes pass as idle conversation is made amongst those gathered. Eventually, the Doyenne manifests in the room, suddenly appearing beside the far window. She quickly moves towards the center of the room. “My apologies for the delay, I cannot reach a Jayden, Ethan, or Ashling, they must be working through the night.” Nazena turns towards Simon. “Do I need to delay this session or can I trust you capable enough to relay this information to your companions?”

“I can relay your teachings to them, Doyenne.” Simon says.

“Good. I’ve wasted enough time tonight, let’s begin. Tonight, we’ll be discussing the dreamborn – beings born of dreams that can exist solely within the Dreamscape. We will also discuss the nightmares, dreamborn afflicted and cursed by the power of the Nightmare, and I suspect creatures you will be forced to contend with on multiple occasions. Understanding the dreamborn can be difficult, for even we dreambound are still learning more about them. However, we know well what they’re capable of, and it’s vital you all do as well. Understanding where these creatures come from is often the most difficult for new students. In reality, it’s very likely you’ve all met a dreamborn before and never realized it. Not only that, it’s very likely that you’ve all birthed a dreamborn before and never knew.”

Nazena speaks at length, teaching the party and all those gathered of the Dreamborn and their powers, as well as those of nightmares and the nightmare lords. Thanks to your questioning of Torun’s Illuminus months ago, much of the Doyenne’s lesson is a rehash information the party already knows, though her discussion on their origins and nature is a vital addition to your understanding of them.

“And that…I believe is everything.” Nazena sits back down in her tall chair, her snowy owl fluttering down into her lap, hooting softly. “Now then, are there any questions?”

“Doyenne, one question most immediately comes to my mind.” Simon says “You mentioned that dreamborn cannot leave the Dreamscape? At least, not for long. How did so many nightmares find their way to us on Creed then?”

Nazena is silent for a long moment before speaking. “I don’t know. As far as I have ever learned, it should be impossible for a dreamborn to leave the Dreamscape. And after spending some time in my library, I can safely say that every text I possess says the same thing.” Nazena purses her lips, displeased at having to reveal her own failure. “However, I believe the simple answer is that those storm kites were not dreamborn. But rather…somehow, beings born purely of the Nightmare.”

“But, like…how could something bound to the Dreamscape not be dreamborn?” Jessy asks.

“Who says the Nightmare is contained to the Dreamscape?” Kamahl says quietly, a dark confidence about him.

Nazena and many of those gathered stare surprised at the barbarian. The Doyenne finally speaks, “Astute, Kamahl. It’s long been thought that the Nightmare may in fact be able to reach outside of the Dreamscape. Many Dreaming magics that draw upon the Nightmare more readily bleed into the waking world, and many forces are believed to touch upon the Nightmare-”

“Just so.” Nazena says, “And, in that same logic, perhaps there are beings beyond the dreamborn it can afflict. Or certain weaknesses it can take advantage of. Unfortunately, all we have are suppositions and hypotheses. Or…well, up until recently, as far as I know.

“Fortunately,” Nazena continues, “any nightmare not born of the Dreamscape should be weaker than its brethren – many of a nightmare’s strengths draw upon their dreamborn nature.” Nazena pauses for a long moment. “Though I suppose I cannot say that for certain.”

In character questions for Nazena can be raised in the comments section below, out of character questions can be raised in the forums. Any questions raised by the NPCs have effectively been answered already and included in the template pages. Once Nazena has fielded all of the groups’ questions, she prepares to send the gathered home.

“Any other questions?” Nazena asks as she looks around the quiet room. “Then we’ll bring this evening to a close.” Nazena stands up and moves to the center of the room. “I believe our next lesson will be our last. Many of you have informed me that you’re either ready to depart or nearly so, and I have ignored too many of my duties of late as it is. Our last lesson will discuss the wardens of the Dreamscape – the dreambound – and I will touch upon the dreaming magics we can wield. Until then, students.”

Nazena claps her hands together, and the wave of violet power quickly sends you back to your own dreams.

Continuing to prepare your group for their upcoming journey, Doyenne Nazena gathers you all for another lesson. As before, please feel free to post any in character questions or comments down below and any out of character questions or comments in the forum thread .

The Nightmare

You find yourself once more in Nazena’s study. Your weary mind again struggles to grasp how you arrived here, but you would be hard pressed to forget this room after the hours you’ve spent here. As before, you see your friends have been gathered along with you, each of them slowly working through the brief confusion. The Doyenne is across from you, already sitting in her tall-backed chair. Her snowy owl sits perched beside her, watching the room with interest.

“Good evening, everyone.” Nazena says, “It’s time for our second lesson.” The Doyenne rises from her chair and moves towards the center of the room. “However, before we start, a question for you all. What does the word ‘nightmare’ mean to you?”

“Oh, oh!” Gurk’s bladed hand flies up as he shouts. Nazena’s owl hoots and flutters its wings at the sudden gesture. “Gurk know! Nightmare is very cuddly – but very angry – horsey demon! Also, very bad dreams, but Gurk rarely have. Gurk very happy slaadi.” Gurk shares a very toothy smile with the room, as if to emphasise this fact.

“Chainer always called them his ‘nightmares’, but Skellum always referred to them as horrors.” Kamahl says, speaking towards Fire-Feather. “Though I’ve never seen a dementiaist conjure anything I wouldn’t call a nightmare, so…” The large barbarian shrugs.

“There’s the Nightmare spell, of course.” Simon says, “And I believe there are a few professions which draw connections to night terrors, most often those dealing with phantasms, illusions, or the like. Some number of monsters have similar connections to nightmare, though Cayden would know better than I on that.”

Nazena nods as she listens. “All good examples, all circling around the core facets of the Nightmare. As we discussed before, the most powerful of dreams arise from strong emotions. And while joy and lust and the like can certainly muster such dreams, darker emotions have a far easier time doing so. Hatred, disgust, anger, and, principle of them all, fear, such emotions hold a powerfully primitive control over every living being’s mind. Over time, these dark dreams have given rise to a storm within the Dreamscape. Many dreambound consider it the dark twin of the Sapanvar, for it is created in much the same way despite manifesting in a much more tangible form. We know it simply as the Nightmare, a force able to corrupt minds and darken dreams, and even the greatest of dreamborn flee before it…

Nazena speaks at length, teaching the party and all those gathered of the Nightmare on the Dreamscape. The page has been updated to reflect the party’s increased understanding of the dreaming world.

“Given everything I’ve heard, I find it very likely you’ll contend with the Nightmare and those warped by it more than once on your mission. I believe understanding how this force works will be vital to your success while facing it. ” Nazena sits back down in her tall chair and looks questioningly around the room. “With that all said, are there any questions?”

“So, like…to be super clear here, I’m not any safer from the Nightmare given I’m a dragon or whatever, right?” Jessy asks, a hint of concern noticeable in her voice.

“No. While the Nightmare shares many similarities to the Dreamtide, it is a very different phenomena. Beings with little emotion or with a strong resilience to anything that would affect their emotions – such as dreambound and paladins – they can undergo training to harden themselves to the effects of the Nightmare, but it is not a natural fortitude we possess. Fortunately, the effects of the Nightmare abate fairly quickly while outside of it and it’s most corruptive effect can only affect the dreamborn.”

“Doyenne, what if we should find ourselves trapped within the Nightmare? Or what if we must stay within it for some other reason?” Fire-Feather asks, her militaristic mind already thinking though contingencies. “You mentioned that most dreams are unaffected by the Nightmare. I assume we could find shelter within those?”

The Doyenne nods, “Yes, quite correct. However, if necessary you could also seek shelter within a dream touched by the Nightmare. You would have to drive out its influence – that is, destroy the elements of the dream twisted by the Nightmare – much like benevolent dreamborn do to aid dreamers they believe vulnerable. If successful, such a dream can be made safe, and will even prevent the Nightmare from influencing the dreamer.”

“Excellent questions,” Nazena says as she looks to both Jessy and Fire-Feather, then looks up to the rest of the room. “Any others?”

In character questions for Nazena can be raised in the comments section below, out of character questions can be raised in the forums. Any questions raised by the NPCs have effectively been answered already and included in the Nightmare section on the Dreamscape page. Once Nazena has fielded all of the groups’ questions, she prepares to send the gathered home.

“No more? Then I believe that will do for this lesson.” Nazena stands up and returns to the center of the room. “Next time we gather, I will discuss the nature of both the dreamborn and the nightmares they can become. Until then, I wish you all the best with your preparations. Sleep well, students.”

As before, Nazena brings her hands together, and the wash of dreaming energies quickly sends you back to your own dreams.

In an effort to better prepare your unusual band for their foray, Doyenne Nazena has decided to boil down a handful of lessons for your all regarding the Dreamscape. They are infrequent, as her schedule with the high council allows, but she is certain her teachings will be of use.

I’ll be writing these as in-character conversation between the Doyenne and your gathered allies, though the majority of the mechanical information contained in updated or newly revealed new pages on the wiki (my version of an Explain Everything, if you will). The in-character bits will be presented from a universal first-person perspective – not wanting to speak for your characters, I will not be using them in these conversation. However, please feel free to post any in character questions or comments down below and any out of character questions or comments in the forum thread .

I’ll try to make these enjoyable reads, but, fair warning, I’m not a fiction writer, so my preemptive apologies if these feel rough.

The Dreamscape

You start with a jolt, feeling as if suddenly woken from a deep slumber. The room around you seems wrong and your mind is hazy, almost half-asleep. But you’re certain you weren’t here just a moment ago. The appointments of the room are harsh, though the menagerie of furs and the thick window drapes add an air of comfort. A few scattered candles and a small fire offer only faint illumination in the otherwise dark room. It’s familiar, but…

Of course, you’re in Nazena’s study. And you’re not alone.

Your many friends and allies that have agreed to join you to save the Dreamsage all sit near you, your large chairs forming a loose circle around the room. It swiftly dawns on you that the Doyenne must have brought you here in a dream, much as the Dreamsage did those years ago. You see your friends from Sanctuary making the same quick realization, though your allies less familiar with Dreambound magic struggle to make the jump.

“Not to be, like, super rude, but how the hell did I get back here? Neddy-poo, if you gated me here in my sleep I am not amused” Jessy’s bouncy voice finally breaking the room’s silence.

“You aren’t here. Not physically, anyway, as much as it may feel otherwise.” The Doyenne stands beside the fireplace, staring out the room’s large windows, looking onto the bleak, frozen lake below. She turns and walks towards the the only empty chair in the room as she speaks, “This is merely a dream – a pocket forged within the Dreamscape – and I have gathered you all here, not…Neddy-poo.”

“So…nifty, I guess. But, like, why?” The dragon – still guised in her merfolk form – pulls her legs up into the chair and leaned forward on her hands, appearing earnestly curious despite her perpetually flippant tone.

Nazena sighs and thinks for a long moment as she settles into her tall-backed chair by the fire. Finally, she speaks, in a very measured tone, “Kradak went into the Dreamscape with a small but powerful group of allies – those he could grab quickly. However, for as powerful as Kradak might be, he is not Dreambound, nor was I able to find one willing to aid him swiftly enough for his tastes. And so he left without one. Kradak’s group has now been gone for nearly a year, and I’ve heard neither word nor whisper in all that time.” The Doyenne pauses for a another moment to collect her thoughts, “Now, once again, I prepare to send a group into unknown dreams, and again I prepare to send them in without a dreambound. This time, however, I am working with a group that is, wisely, preparing for their journey, rather than rushing blindly in to save an old fool. This time, I have decided to be more than a travel guide. I will also be your teacher. I will educated you on the many mysteries of the Dreamscape, and hopefully you will all succeed where Kradak has failed.”

“Hang on,” Kamahl speaks up, interrupting Simon without a second thought, “Lessons are great and all, but why don’t we – crazy thought – just grab ourselves a Dreambound?”

“Barbarians, ever the advocates of simple solutions.” The Doyenne says towards Kamahl, a small but warm smile breaking her normally frosty demeanor. “I suppose there’s no point keeping it from you. The simple truth is, I can’t find any. Not any willing to aid the Dreamsage, anyways.”

“Did Bayul have no friends or allies among the other Dreambound?” Kamahl speaks with a hint of sympathy.

“A handful. Though, admittedly, more supporters than true friends or allies. Understand, we Dreambound are few in number to begin with, and many of us have wildly differing views on the Dreamscape. The Dreamsage holds a very particular vision that not all of us agree with, at least not entirely, and those disagreements have created deep rifts between some of us…” Nazena trails off, looking out the window, as if remembering a half-forgotten memory.

“But…I’m getting off track, my fellows are a conversation for another day. Another lesson. Back to your question – I cannot find any Dreambound willing to aid the Dreamsage because, simply put, they seem to have disappeared. Either they’ve run for the hills or…well, or they’ve already gone to try and rescue him, and they’ve obviously failed to do so.”

“The lack of a rescued Dreamsage being here with us fill me with confidence,” Ethan quips from across the room, earning himself a disapproving glance from Jayden. The catfolk holds up his hands, as if in surrender, “Sorry, just thought I’d point it out.”

“No, it’s a fair concern. However, I believe as dire this news is it doesn’t bode terribly ill for you all. For anything or anyone to capture the Dreamsage in his nightmare, they must have spent great efforts to craft the perfect trap for him. I’m not surprised my fellows failed to overcome a trap meant a much greater Dreambound for any of them – assuming they are in fact in the Dreamscape with Bayul. Fortunately, you are not Dreambound, thus any trap meant specifically for my fellows will pose no more danger to you than the Dreamscape normally would. In fact, in may prove easier to defeat.”

Nazena stands up and steps towards the center of the room. “In fact, that nicely transitions to the first of my lessons for you all. The Dreamscape itself. If you’re going to travel this realm, you need to be prepared. Before we begin, I must emphasize that the Dreamscape is a realm unlike any other, a place is farther away from Creed than any other plane and a world of mercurial form on the best of days. In fact, some Dreambound consider calling it a plane at all is a mistake …”

Nazena speaks at great length, teaching the party and all those gathered of the many mysteries and dangers of The Dreamscape. The page has been updated to reflect the party’s increased understanding of the dreaming world.

“So…I believe that about covers it. From a laymans perspective, anyways. Are there any questions?” Nazena sits back down in her tall chair, having spoken for what felt like hours, and looks questioningly around the room.

“Yes, about thirty” Ethan starts, flipping through an imaginary notebook.

“Oh, of course.” Simon reaches down, instinctively grabbing for his absent notebook. Flustered, he continues, “Well, er, yes, I can think of a few…”

In character questions for Nazena can be raised in the comments section below, out of character questions can be raised in the forums. Any questions raised by the NPCs have effectively been answered already and included in the Dreamscape’s page. Once Nazena has fielded all of the groups’ questions, she prepares to send the gathered home.

“No more questions? Very well.” Nazena stands up and moves once again back to the center of the room, “In the coming days, as my schedule with the Council allows, I will call you all back here for additional lessons. Once more to discuss myself and my fellows, the Dreambound, and our powers. After that, I believe we will discuss the Dreamborn creatures and their darker Nightmares cousins. And if time allows after that, I will spend an evening discussing the more benign denizens of the Dreamscape and some other phenomena that may be useful to you. Now then…I believe with that, we will call an end to this evening.”

Taking Stock: The Untold Stories of 5132

As 5132 comes to a close, we here at the Quarterly would like to take a moment to look back on our year. As many of our long-time readers will know, we here at the Quarterly like to use our cover story for our “Life of” series. To any of our newer readers, this is probably news. (Also, to those newer readers, hello! Come stop by my office in Asuren sometime, I make a mean macaroon and I love meeting our newcomers!) While some might call them “fluff” pieces, we think the interviews and bios bring a much needed connection to our often dispersed family – after all, this publication is made by you, for you. News to nobody, this last year didn’t let us do a single one of these pieces. Swinging in right after the rash of diseases the year before, Niv Mizzet and the Ebon Hand gave us all a one-two punch we won’t be forgetting for some time, and our cover story served an admittedly more vital role during those tumultuous times. Fortunately, Creed seems to be calming down to normal levels of insanity for the moment, so, today, we’re going to touch on some stories we didn’t get to cover during the last year.

(The section occupies a solid three pages, discussing over a dozen different stories from across the year, spending a paragraph or two on each. Many of the stories are interesting, if frustratingly brief, but mean nothing to the party. A handful of the stories clearly came from rumors posted to the Questboard, and The Strange Company gets mentioned in a story discussing new research started on phasing magic. )

It’s been another crazy year, Keepers. We here at the Quarterly wish you all a happy Festival of Lights and hope you’re enjoying good food, good company, and some good adventures in these winter months, wherever you might be!

Weathering Winter with Researcher Malkuda

While winter may be my favorite season, it’s easy to understand why so many hate the hoarfrost. Harvests run low, travel becomes difficult, and the sun sleeps through most of the day. Worse yet, as our civilizations bundle up, many predatory creatures stretch out far beyond their normal homes. Whether hungry, horny, or simply opportunists, these creatures can pose a far more dangerous threat in the dark snowy nights than they normally would on a bright spring day.

(This section discusses useful tips, tricks, and tools for surviving Creed’s winters, looking at common shifts in monstrous behavior during the winter as well as common environmental hazards that come with the snows. It additionally discusses prudent winter gear, such as snowshoes and frostbite salve, and useful spells such as Snowshoes, Endure Elements, and even Know Direction for the nastier blizzards.)

Hot off the Forge with Dweomersmith Slagston

For magicians and adventurers alike, one bit of advice has stood the test of time: always have a trick up your sleeve; ideally, more than one. While we Keepers might excel in our scholarly pursuits and think ourselves ready for anything, it’s vital to recognize that everyone has their shortcomings. Fortunately, with the right tools and trinkets, we can be a little bit more prepared for where we would normally fall short. These trinkets go by dozens of names in hundreds of forms – potions, scrolls, tokens, buttons, scarabs, you name it – but whatever the box it comes in, these mystical doodads are all designed to save your skin. Today, we’re going to talk about these magical lifesavers – your ace in the hole, your widget of wonder, your unexpected edge for when you’re backed against a ledge.

(This section discusses some classic single-use magic items and some of their more modern innovations. While potions, wands, and scrolls have their obvious advantages, many modern innovators are turning to tokens, dusts, and ointments. These newer forms of magic items may be more expensive, but their ease of use makes them popular choices. The section concludes with a list outlining a number of unusual but decidedly recommended single-use magical items, such as the Feather Tokens, Dust of Appearance, and the Elemental Gems.)

As for our discount items this season, we’ve got a good haul of treasures to dish out, so be sure to contact your handler if anything we’ve got raises your interest. As always, resales are prohibited and discounts of course vary by department and contract. Continuing to show their appreciation for our researchers, senior partners are giving us another month of increased reductions – just as last season, everything this round is now at a minimum of 15% below standard market rates. Happy Festival of Lights, everyone!

1x Ring of Djinni Calling connected to Dabria, a rare female Black Djinn native to Creed but currently living in the Shadow Lands (roughly 250,000 gp market value). Dabria is a lovely djinn (literally and figuratively), more than capable with her power despite her age, and is happily awaiting a new master. Research leftovers.

1x Belt of Stoneskin (60,000 gp market value). A simple belt made of stone plates woven onto a thick auroch hide, originally made for the thick girth of a stone giant. Purchase comes with a free resizing. Retrieved from stone giant kidnappers (that is, stone giants that were kidnapping people – seriously) in western Alabastra by Keeper agents.

1x Staff of Traps (roughly 57,000 gp market value). A large and heavily knotted blanchwood staff, originally sized for a stone giant. If desired, a Crafter on-staff can transfer the magics to a different non-magical staff in your possession for a 1,000 gp fee, though such a buyer must of course be sufficiently skilled with using magical devices (testing for such is available). Retrieved from stone giant kidnappers in western Alabastra by Keeper agents.

4x Explorer’s Helmets (3,200 gp market value). Simple small sized helmets made of pressed fibers with a wide brim, suitable if poor craftsmanship. Retrieved from kobolds working for a vermin lord in Erathell by Keeper agents.

Large stock size small weaponry (daggers, sickles, spears, and tail attachments for the most part) along with leather and hide armor of universally poor construction. Retrieved from kobolds working for a vermin lord in Erathell by Keeper agents. Anticipate sizable additional discounts.

Questboard

While your handlers are of course doing their damnedest to keep food on your plate, we always have rumors come in that fall outside of department purview. If any of these rumors turn out to be appropriate for Keeper involvement, all rumors listed below have been approved for due compensation according to sections 32.A of the on-staff field researcher’s contract or 8.B of the mercenary field researcher’s contract. See your handler soon about any interests – first come, first serve.

Alabastra

One of our agents among the nishoba caught word of what I’m certain are vinebred hunting out east in the Wild North. Apparently they were seen hauling a couple of dire polar bears with them, heading up into the foothills of the Twilights. Might be nothing, might be something. Any rangers or biomancers familiar with the Wild North, this might be a good one for you.

Fishermen in Keld have been reporting a number of oddities far off the south-eastern coast: large birds, particularly aggressive marine life, and unusually inclement weather, even for this time of the year. Maybe connected to that creepy fucking warship sitting out there? Maybe a dead elsewhale floating in the waters? You tell us!

Erathell

Serenading Serine. Word’s floating around Serine, a small town in Celanthiral, that some of the inhabitants have been hearing music come in with the ocean waves. While this sounds like a harpy, there’s a lot that doesn’t add up here (mostly the lack of men flinging themselves into the oceans to hunt down some of that feathered rump). Any marine-friendly mercenaries in the area wanna take a look at this one? Bring some earplugs.

This is an odd one. One of our mercenaries passing through Starfork, a small port in Sunset Fields, a couple months ago noticed a Universal mystical aura lingering over nearly all of the town’s inhabitants. Not necessarily weird in and of itself, plenty of powerful spells can affect towns like that, though no one’s reported anything even remotely odd in the area. Stranger yet, he could only see it with Greater Arcane Sight and the aura lingered for over a week! That’s some powerful stuff that someone wanted to keep hidden right there folks. Any expert auramancers out there, this might be a good puzzle for you.

Rabid thallid salad. Do any of you eat thallid? First off, I’m so sorry. But, if you do, odds are that some of it came from Calleon Yaavan, a thallid farm up the river north-east of Thalore. I noticed recently that they’ve had an odd pattern of insurance claims put through for missing thallids this last year. It’s not drastically more than they normally have, but it seems to come and go in waves. Maybe a band of surprisingly sneaky thallid wranglers? Maybe a nest of sentient shocker lizards are stealing thallids for their eventual uprising? Maybe I’m just reading too much into this? I’m personally hoping for the thallid wranglers.

Coricona

Wilds gone weird? It seems like something strange is happening down in the Talruums. A mix of solid reports and wild rumors makes it hard to know exactly what’s happening, but it seems like a mess of wild magic has settled into the Talgroven valley. Reports of unpredictable weather, strange creatures, melting trees, and straight up broken mana have come in over the last month, though the oddities seem to all be passing – even the broken mana. I’d say we might be seeing the effects of a Wild Storm pouring through breach to Limbo, but for a full month? Unlikely. I think we’ve got a few wild mages on staff – any of you have some spare some time to check this out?

Well this is a sad one. Two kitsune families were murdered in Kura on the 13th of Winterdusk, the south-eastern port in Ikari, and three kitsune children are currently missing. Early investigation points to a barbarian, or possibly a group of barbarians, being responsible, and it seems likely they’ve already fled back into the Ashridge. The champions from Kardsken, the nearest barbarian tribe, have condemned the murders and a handful of barbarians have already started the hunt for those responsible. Maybe I’m being a bit negative here, but the barbarians are likely out of there depth here. If we’ve got any rangers or inquisitors in the area that’re friendly with the barbarians, I’d love to see one of us help nail the bastards that did this.

We’ve heard rumor that an aven member of the Stygian Order recently caught a glimpse of bright light emanate from within the near center of the Clinging Mists. If anyone’s heard any more news related to this or might have some proof as to what that was, let us know.

Dentyr

The wastelands – the fucked up gift that never stops giving. It looks like another one of the long-slumbering titans of the old northern forests just woke up – an elderscale wurm. It’s been spotted on the northern coast and reports say it looks confused, hungry, and pissed. To any of our mercs that hunt the wastes, consider this a warning. Though, if any druids manage to make contact with this thing, maybe see if we can slap a “return to sender” on it and ship it down to Rhyza Varis?

Birds of a feather. About 5 months back, a group of kenku set up a temple to the Raven Queen in Srakis. Unfortunately, many view this as little more than an attempt to legally protect a thief’s guild, particularly the more hard-nosed Twin Kingdom troops that move through the port. I’d call hard racism on this crap…but it looks like there might be some truth to it? A rash of thefts in the last couple months have pointed evidence at the temple and has left the kenku scrambling to prove it wasn’t them, but it doesn’t look like they’re getting much support. Look, I’m no expert, but I say something stinks here. Any investigators or espionage experts among our number interested in helping some feathered friends out?

Klurikon

Reports have come in of a strange white mushroom growing in some isolated pockets on the eastern coast of the Takenuma. Reports are mixed among those that’ve eaten it (because obviously people have eaten the mysterious new mushrooms…), though it mostly seems to be a horribly potent laxative. But, for some very few it instead acts an incredibly powerful hallucinogenic, the high reportedly lasting for days, and seems to leave their bowels perfectly intact. If this is some nezumi’s twisted take on biomancy, then all I can say is, bravo, you magnificent bastard. That said, we might want to get someone looking into it, just in case it’s some sort of demonic egg or mind controlling fungus or some other totally normal thing like that.

Other

A report just recently came in of an emberstorm dozens of miles wide that kicked up on the Quasi-Elemental Plane of Ash. Our agent there got out fast, so we’re not sure what’s caused it or why. However, looking back through our records, agents have on numerous occasions brought back mystical artifacts and other items of considerable power after massive storms like this have blown through. To any of our planar travelers, this might be a great haul just waiting for you.

Keepers in the World

Every season we like to end our newsletter with the accomplishments of our many field researchers, and take time to mention those we’ve lost. This season we’d like to honor the special success enjoyed by Elia Lorellia, a young necromancer among our ranks. Elia’s research and investigation into the disappearing undead in the wetlands quickly revealed the invasive quilled basilisks at the heart of the issue…

(The report carries on talking about the scattered accomplishments of a number of individuals over the last few months and a few names that sound like adventuring groups, none of which you recognize. The section ends with a pleasant note that no Keepers have passed or gone missing since the last quarterly report.)

Delivered to the safekeeping of Alnis of Serra on Winterdusk 9

My dearest of dear friends,

I dearly hope that this letter never falls into your hands, and that this is merely my own sense of paranoia after all that has happened, but I entrusted this letter to Alnis should something happen to me that cannot be explained rationally.

It is the afternoon of Winterdusk the 9th, and the lady of the Earthen courts has excused herself for a moment whilst examining my drake for the phenomenon that seems to link him and I to the Earthen courts. I take this opportunity to note my consternation, should one of you acquire my possessions later because something… unknown or unbecoming has happened to me.

Ned, Cayden, something is wrong. I don’t know what yet, but today is when it started. I don’t want to alarm you, so I won’t tell you in person, at least not for now. If you already know by now, well, I’m sorry you had to read this here instead of hear it from my own lips, but. I think I found someone we’ve bet before. WELL before, if you catch my meaning. Something cries out, audible to myself and to my drake, roaring in anguish and frustration, tied to the appearance of the grand acolyte of the earthen courts. She was mentioned in the reports I commissioned from the Keepers, and she in turn received my inquiries. It doesn’t seem a coincidence.

Doubly so the fact that I began weeping not long after meeting her. Not consciously, no. It was brought to my attention by others before I even felt the tears upon my face. And the psychic cry that lingers when I touch the bond with my drake – I can’t believe this is an accident. This could be fate or it could be something worse. I trust the two of you to save me if I, in my arrogant foolishness, press into some manner of trap. This… it terrifies me. I know, I know, I am easily scared, but you know I am not as given to paranoia as Cayden, and this unlikely coincidence is the first that targets me directly in a way I do not understand.

Perhaps this is paranoia after all the ills that have befallen us because of previous connections. Perhaps I am blind to the past, or confused because of it. But I have to note this here, lest you think ill of me if… if the worst happens.

You two are and will always be my closest friends, my bosom companions. Should my actions ever belie this, please, know that what has happened was not what I wanted, and that it began today.

Yours, despite all circumstance and happenstance,

Reikhardt Flaxmane

(Written on the outside of the envelope)

Alnis, please safeguard this letter, and deliver this to Ned and Cayden in six months unless I mention it again beforehand. I suspect something is amiss, but cannot determine its cause unless I investigate further, and doing so may place me at risk. I rely upon you, most steadfast of counselors, to do this favor for me. I am in your debt.
(a much more modest personal mark than his usual flamboyant signature adorns the seal)

This report was commissioned on the 7th of Summersend, 5132. Funded through Partner Research Account 00006. As request, this report has been updated weekly until its final delivery.

Alchemical, Herbal, and Mundane Healing Stock

At this time, the Keepers do not have an sellable mundane or herbal medicinal stock

23x Burn Salve: If applied within 2 rounds of burn injury, it will heal 1d6 points of fire based damage. 15 gp.

37x Frost Lotion: This lotion can heal 1d6 points of cold damage if applied within 2 rounds of the injury. 15 gp.

30x Bloodblock: This gooey, pinkish substance helps treat wounds. Using a dose gives you a +5 alchemical bonus on Heal checks for providing first aid, treating wounds made by caltrops or similar objects, or treating deadly wounds. A dose of bloodblock ends a bleed effect as if you had made a DC 15 Heal check. When treating deadly wounds, using a dose of bloodblock counts as one use of a healer’s kit (and grants the +5 bonus stated above). 25 gp.

19x Healy Myrrh: When you burn this powerful resin, it fills 8,000 cubic feet (a 20 ft cube) with faint smoke that persists for 8 full hours. Any creatures resting or receiving long-term care in the area while the healy myrrh is active regain 1 additional hit point per level. Multiple uses of healy myrrh in a 24-hour period do not stack. 25 gp.

118x Medical Salve: As a full round action, one rubs this stinky green paste into a wound and it heals 1d8 points of damage. 50 gp.

4x Magic-Eating Armor: While wearing magic-eating armor, whenever you succeed on a saving throw against a spell that targets you, the armor heals you of 1 point of damage per level of the spell. This healing occurs after the spell takes effect and only once per spell. 10,000 gp.

Crystal of Lifedrinking – 16x Least, 12x Lesser, and 11x Greater: Weapon crystals. Least heals 1 hit point per successful hit with the weapon and up to 10 total points of healing per day, Lesser heals 3/hit up to 30/day, and Greater heals 5/hit up to 50/day. 400 gp, 1500 gp, and 6000 gp respectively.

7x Vest of Surgery: Vest can hold charges from a Healer’s Kit to make them count as always at-hand. Once per day, the wearer can make a DC 20 Heal check as if attempting to treat deadly wounds. If the check is successful, it cures 1d4 points of ability damage instead of hit point damage. 3,000 gp.

Outsiders Among Us

It’s no secret that since the summoning of the Ebon Praetor, planar breaches have become an increasingly common occurrence. Fortunately, the worst of these planar incursions are behind us now, and our researchers predict we’ll see breach occurrence completely exponentially decrease back to normal rates within the next year. Unfortunately, the long-lasting effects of these breaches may prove to be a greater problem than originally anticipating. Complete breaches to the planes were far more common than originally predicted, resulting in areas that were inundated with material from other planes. These areas often experienced serious disruption if not outright devastation, and will be more likely to experience additional breaching up through the next decade. More importantly, however, are the numerous creatures that have migrated to Creed through these breaches. While many of these outsiders have already died or departed, some of the nastier of our visitors have decided to make an extended stay. Today, we’re going to talk about Creed’s most threatening new houseguests.

(The section occupies over three pages, discussing the handful of major outsiders that have been spotted on Creed since the coming of the Ebon Praetor. Some mean nothing to the party, and some even indicate they may be of no concern. Among the many, the following jump out…

Mention is made of a monstrous djinn has been seen moving through the Great Forest, causing rampant growth wherever it goes. It’s believed the djinn originated just north of Starfork, though rumor says that research being performed by the Burning Thorn is to blame for its birth…

Scattered reports have come in of faeries or at least of creatures that resemble faeries seen roaming away from the faewoods on normal calendar days. Some descriptions claim they look more humanoid than insect, interestingly matching some archaic descriptions of sprites and faeries. It’s possible the creatures spotted were Lyrakien or other celestial beings, though this seems unlikely as no breaches to the Lands of Light have been found as of yet. Of somewhat more extreme concern, it’s also possible that a planar breach ripped a temporary hole into the Faewoods. Either way, no agent or other credible source has come forward with a definitive sighting or proof, but the volume of similar reports certainly merits interest…

Of some concern, a major demon has established his own cult in the Dentyr Wastes, calling themselves the Disciples of Gix. Supposedly he offers respite from the Wastes for any traveler and has convinced more than a few to join his numbers. The cultists apparently spend much of their time hunting the wastes for ancient artifice, many having replaced one or more limbs with complex artifice replacements…

Among them all, the most benign seems to be a plant elemental that’s been seen traveling down in the Ashridge. Numerous agents have heard rumor about him, the strange outsider having made waves aiding travelers and making friends with the local barbarian tribes. We nearly didn’t include him on this list, as plant elementals are very often native, but rumors hold he has a decidedly otherworldly wisdom and he seems to have appeared around the same time the rifts first started appearing.)

It’s a wild time out there, Keepers. Fortunately, we’ve got the info you need to stay informed and stay safe.

Tracking the Trackless with Researcher Malkuda

Long ago, the peoples of Creed were forced to hunt to survive. While some may still cling to these old traditions, many of us prefer the comforts offered by our local butchers, bakers, and botanicas. However, for the adventurers of our world, the hunt is very much so alive, whether it be for an ancient artifact or for more dangerous game. With the recent incursion of outsiders onto Creed, it seems wise to discuss ways you might better track your more elusive opponents – or learn to escape such pursuit, if you find yourself the prey.

(This section discusses useful tips, tricks, and tools both alchemical and mundane that can aid in a hunt, along with spells such as Scent, Locate Creature, and Discern Location for the powerful and impatient. The section ends with a discussion of how best to avoid a tracker if necessary, touching on basic evasion techniques and alchemical tools useful to fool pursuers with a keen sense of smell, along with the ups and downs of spells like Pass without Trace, Negate Aroma, Nondetection, or, for the druids and other shapeshifting-inclined individuals, polymorph spells such as Animal Shape.)

Hot off the Forge with Dweomersmith Slagston

Ever since the viashino storyteller Sherza wrote of Aladdin and his adventures in the Cave of Wonder, the booby-trapped dungeon has been trapped in our cultural mythos. Unfortunately, for those among us who plumb ancient tombs and ruined keeps, traps are less grand fantasy and more often a painful reality. Today, we’re going to look at some classic tools along with some true marvels created by modern delvers.

(This section discusses tried and true dungeon delver tips and tricks, touching on the unique skills a well-verse rogue, bard, or even a berserker can bring to a dive. A good amount of space is spent discussing classic dungeoneering tools along with some modern adaptations, such as the longspoon thieves tools, rust monster wands, and the Rod of Ropes.)

As for our discount hauls this season, we’ve got a handful of reclaimed treasure treasures to dish out, so be sure to contact your handler if anything we’ve got raises your interest. As always, resales are prohibited and discounts of course vary by department and contract. Apparently we’ve had a windfall of income this season, and the senior partners have decided to show their appreciation over the coming seasons – everything this round’s at a minimum of 13% below standard market rates, and I’ve been informed the next few seasons should be similarly reduced as well.

1x Impervious Spirit Silver Sectioned Plate (roughly 134,000 gp market value). An incredibly rare suit of spirit silver full plate, design dating back easily over 1000 years, originally designed for a thick-shouldered male humanoid. Purchase comes with a free resizing. If desired, a Crafter on-staff can transfer the magics to a different suit of non-magical armor in your possession for a 1,000 gp fee, though such a buyer must of course be sufficiently skilled with using magical devices (testing for such is available). Origin confidential.

1x Gauntlets of the Weaponmaster (roughly 110,000 gp market value). An exotic piece, these spiked steel gauntlets were forged from the fragments of numerous weapons. Be warned, this is a Crafter item, believed to have been originally created by Durzon the Blademaster. Because of the cultural significance, orcish agents will be given priority in the case of simultaneous requests. Retrieved by mercenaries from Rhyza Varis.

1x Armor of Fragmenting Stone (roughly 18,000 gp market value). Beautiful suit of mithral full plate, inlaid with large slabs of green and white marble, designed for a female kitsune frame. Purchase comes with a free resizing. If desired, a Crafter on-staff can transfer the magics to a different suit of non-magical armor in your possession for a 1,000 gp fee, though such a buyer must of course be sufficiently skilled with using magical devices (testing for such is available). Retrieved from debt collection.

1x Wand of Locate Object with 27 charges left (roughly 2,450 gp market value). A simple mangrove wand ornamented with a number of small etchings. Retrieved by Keeper agents from Klurikon, origin otherwise confidential.

Questboard

While your handlers are of course doing their damnedest to keep food on your plate, we always have rumors come in that fall outside of department purview. If any of these rumors turn out to be appropriate for Keeper involvement, all rumors listed below have been approved for due compensation according to sections 32.A of the on-staff field researcher’s contract or 8.B of the mercenary field researcher’s contract. See your handler soon about any interests – first come, first serve.

Alabastra

Mechanical manticore? An agent traveling in the wild north heard rumor from a group of nishoba that some sort of mechanical wingless manticore had been spotted in the north-eastern Twilights. To the artifice-inclined, that description probably sounds an awful lot like a masticore. Unless there’s an artificer letting his pet run around, taking that thing down would be a pretty payday for a powerful mercenary or an amazing haul for any artificer with the brass ball bearings to tame that beast.

Deep sea expedition? Reports say that Keldon warship has been seen sitting anchored about 50 miles off the south-eastern coast of Keld. Eerily, rumor holds that no one who’s gone to investigate the vessel have been heard from since. We shot a message to the Doyen Council asking about this and they sent us the following, “The waters around Keld can be treacherous this time of year. We advise travelers straying from major trade routes to take caution, or you might find yourself below the waves.” Eeeeyikes! To the sane among you, consider this a “Stay away” PSA. To the insatiably curious among you…uh, good luck?

Erathell

A light workload? Reports have come in that Radiant Elementals have appeared in the ruins of Millton. Reports highlighted that efforts were starting to rebuild the city, but these elementals just seem to be aggressively claiming it as their own. While it’s easy to assume that these elementals flashed in through a planar breach, these Radiant Elementals are acting so strangely it’s got more than a few of us questioning that. If there’re any planar savants or elemental shamans near the area, this might be a great job to brighten up your Fall. Just make sure you don’t take the job too lightly, and be sure to illuminate us on anything you find.

A new disease? A strange and festering rot afflicting plant life has been sighted in southern Erathell. Apparently centered in a middle-of-nowhere area about 70 miles almost straight north of Erius, the diseased plants were spotted by group of elven hunters. They described it as something that sounds a lot like fire blight, but fire blight normally only oozes and festers during particularly warm and humid weather. Maybe not the most exciting rumor, but if anyone ends up looking into this definitely let us know what you find.

Coricona

Wetland woes. Word’s coming out of the Marshlands that the populations of weaker undead there have been continually dropping for about two months now – apparently, this is a bad thing. The undead in the wetlands are such a vital part of the local biome that this sudeen change could threaten a total breakdown of the ecosystem if allowed to go on long enough. Worse yet, many of the more dangerous undead have already started expanding their territory because of this. While it seems likely that the druids of the marsh will figure this out given time, this might be an excellent opportunity for a younger group of mercenaries to cut their teeth on a real mystery. Save the undead, save the Marsh!

Forbidden fog? A group of adventurers returning from a run into the Forbidden Peninsula claimed they saw an eerie fog rolling around the southern edge of the peninsula. They reported what seemed to be dark shapes moving within it, and, while it smelled an awful lot like a cloud of smoke, it clearly looked and moved like a fog bank. Unfortunately, they gave it such a wide berth that we don’t have anything more to go on and (unsurprisingly) no handler’s going to order an agent into the Forbidden Peninsula on such a weak report (or, you know, period). Any mercs “comfortable” with the Forbidden Peninsula, this might be a great starting point for your next hunt.

Alright, this is going to be a touchy one. As you all may or may not be not be aware, the Deep Jukai and the catfolk native to it haven’t always been a part of the Ikari Empire. Many catfolk claim they prefer the arrangement they have now – their religious and cultural freedoms are held to be intact, they find it a preferable position regarding international politics, etc. Unsurprisingly, there are many catfolk that disagree, claiming Ikari is overharvesting from the Deep Jukai and that they use their position for an unfair trade advantage, among numerous other complaints. Unfortunately, there are some catfolk that disagree violently. Ever since the 1,000th anniversary of the tribes’ entry into Ikari took place about 20 years back, an anarchist group known as JFF (the Jukai Freedom Fighters) has been making increasingly aggressive attacks against the Ikari government. While the Keepers are generally neutral on internal disputes list this, a recent bombing that hit an Ikari military base and one of our outposts in Kaeson met with a violent response from local agents. About a week later, we hear that the JFF is claiming that they aren’t responsible for the attack on the Keepers, though do take responsibility for the military base. There are definitely some strong reasons why the JFF would lie about something this, but there’re more than a few theorizing that the attack might have been a frame just to drag the Keepers into the conflict, and now accusations are fly. We’ve already got a mess of agents hunting for the truth, but this feels like an “all hands on deck” situation to me – the faster we figure this out, the better. Any mercs or free agents interesting in joining, talk to your handlers about putting you on this one.

Dentyr

A tree with no name. Reports from a group of agents that recently infiltrated Rhyza Varis claim they saw a large tree or tree-like object in growing near the cliffs in in the south east of the Great Desert. Unfortunately, the object was spotted from some distance as they were exiting the war zone and didn’t have time to investigate further. A tree growing in the desert could be nothing, or it could be sign that a Century Plant is growing nearby, or any number of things in the middle. If any anyone heads through that area in the near future, keep your eyes peeled, don’t let any ogres peel your eyes, and let us know what you find!

Political suicide? Good word has it that a high ranking member of the Order is heading deep into Ogre territory to meet with a leader among the orcs. I’ll be the first to admit that that I’m about as far from a militant strategist as a chicken is from a roc, but that seems like an insanely bad idea to me. As is well known, the Keepers have officially kept a neutral position regarding the Oni Wars, but without better knowledge of what’s going on we’ve refrained from sending an official query. I’ve heard a couple of you out there have earned passage through Rhyza Varis in the past, and I know a handful of you still run missions in the deserts – any of you have any insights here?

Klurikon

Sleepy sickness? Word has it that a strange affliction has been passing through nezumi warrens on the south eastern coast of the Takenuma. The adults seem to be unaffected, but their afflicted young are apparently falling into deep slumbers and their afflicted “elderly” seem to be aggressively sleepwalking, lashing out at anyone they come across. In either case, many of the afflicted seem to simply stop breathing and quickly pass, or get completely better. Given the nezumi’s natural resilience to disease, I’m guessing something far more sinister than a virus is at work here. Given it’s happening it Klurikon, they might call it “A normal Thursday”. But still, this one has me curious. If any of our medically inclined end up checking this out, drop us a note if a figure out what’s going on.

Other

Turtle hooooo! I’m sure some of you caught the swimming moon last month ago, and we all know what that means! Unfortunately, we didn’t have a sighting this time, though rumor says it might have been seen off the eastern coast of Dentyr. A deep sea fisherman claims he saw something miles out that resembled a mountainous turtle surfacing. Maybe it was a dragon turtle, maybe it was Antillia. Either way, it’s too late now. But! This marks the first time in nearly 200 years that we’ve had three surfacings so close together. Eyes open everyone, this might be our year!

Breaking breakthrough? Word’s circulating that Grand Acolyte Thatia of the Earthen Courts has seen promising results with an experimental treatment for the Jade Contagion. She’s looking for individuals partially touched Elemental Earth (Earth-touched, Half-Elementals, etc) to test treatment on before progressing to testing full elementals. Apparently previous efforts went…well, “erosively bad” just doesn’t sound as good as “explosively bad”, does it? As a ranking member of the Earthen Court, the Keepers cannot officially fund or assist in her research. However, if some of our contract mercenaries were to choose to sign up – well, what could we do, am I right?

Well this is an odd one. A handful of druids across Creed have reported that the Faewoods seem to be clustering in strange ways. We first got reports of this about 8 months back, but until recently it was merely a statistical oddity – historical records have shown this “clustering” behavior numerous times before, but it’s never shown to be important. However, as of the most recent Faerie Day, this marks the greatest occurrence of these clusters happening within such a short period by a substantial margin, and our analysts are concerned a pattern may be slowly emerging. Agents from Celanthiral have discussed this oddity with “friendly” fae and faerie cliques, but according to all reports even the cliques seem to be uncertain of why it might be happening. We’ve already got people on this, but if anyone can discover a lead I can guarantee you’ll see a nice bonus in your future.

Keepers in the World

Every season we like to end our newsletter with the accomplishments of our many field researchers, and take time to mention those we’ve lost. This season we’d like to honor the special efforts and sacrifices made by the Thunder Riders these past few months. Two among their group fell while they undertook a mission to eradicate a sect of the Ebon Hand. Stationed in the Dentyr Wastes, the Thunder Riders discovered that the sect was one of three directly responsible for conjuring the Ebon Praetor. The destruction of this sect, along with the subsequent recovery of a substantial amount of research materials, was a huge victory for both us Keepers and for Creed as a whole.

(The report carries on talking about the scattered accomplishments of a number of individuals over the last few months and a few names that sound like adventuring groups, none of which you recognize. The work The Strange Company did hunting down a wild mutated Rage Nimbus with a group of pyromancers in the Ashridge gets a mention. Special note is also made of House Duvain’s comment that the adventurers were vital in the organization of local recovery efforts. The section ends with a handful of mortuaries for the field researchers and mercenaries that died since the last quarterly report.)

The Ebon Praetor: Fiction Made Fact

Most among the Keepers are familiar with the Order of the Ebon Hand – dark mystics who lead a cabal of vile knights, responsible for enough atrocities to fill a tome (three, actually – request The History of the Ebon Hand, Volumes 1-3 from your handler for more information). Little known, the Ebon Hand worships a strange being known as the Ebon Praetor. What do we know about this cult’s deity? Not much, though texts claim it did exist at one point in history and may have been closely tied to the Lord of the Wastes.

Unfortunately, we’re about to get a new lesson.

On the 1st of Highsummer, the Order of the Ebon Hand managed to summon forth the Ebon Praetor. Reports vary on how they accomplished this – we’re uncertain yet if this was some form of resurrection, if this being is some kind of Avatar, or perhaps even just an incredibly advanced ritual creation – but what we do know is that the being was first seen in the rifts between Limbo and the Dark Lands and it’s believed they lead to his creation. Unfortunately, this act created considerable instability in an already unstable region. Limbo and the Dark Lands are currently experiencing major planar breaching, and this friction has already broken its way into Creed. The Nine Guardians have informed us that there’s no risk of a planar collapse, but planar travelers should rethink any planned trips to Limbo or the Dark Lands and Creed should be on the lookout for out of place creatures and materials from Limbo or the Dark Lands.

It’s a hell of a time to be on Creed, Keepers. Fortunately, we’ve got the info you need to stay informed and stay safe.

(The section occupies nearly two full pages, discussing what little is of the Ebon Praetor, the bloody battle that ultimately banished him to places unknown from Limbo by local forces, and the unstable rifts sweeping across Limbo, Creed, and the Dark lands since his arrival. Information is presented on how to predict and identify a planar breach, and what to do in case one is found.)

A few Keepers have already reported in their pursuit of the Ebon Praetor, but, unfortunately, none have reported any solid leads yet. The Keepers’ current stance regarding the Ebon Praetor is a most unusual “Report on Sight, Kill if Able”, until information changes. Mercenaries are encouraged to capture members of the Ebon Hand if spotted, but we remind you that the Ebon Hand is a protected organization in Klurikon and Keld. Fortunately, the Ebon Hand is wanted for crimes against basically everything by the Twin Kingdoms, Akrekik, Ikari, and Celanthiral, and you should find support from local law officials in any of those nations if they’re presented with sufficient evidence.

Binding your Time with Researcher Malkuda

Calling upon the forces out the outer planes has long been a staple fallback for many adventurers – an outsider brings unique perspective and unique power. The Planar Binding and Planar Ally spells have always been the two most popular options for such pursuits, though many exist. With the recent successes of the Order of the Ebon Hand, it seems wise to discuss how you too might tap into this versatile power – or learn to destroy such magics, if wielded against you.

(This section discusses the particular ins and outs of binding or treating with outsiders – what sacrifices, offerings, or shows of force or contrition can help push an outsider to perform whatever task you desire. The section ends with a discussion of Dark Banishing, Damnation, and, for the most advanced among us, Disjunction – looking at how these three spells uniquely interact with bound outsiders vs allied outsider.)

Hot off the Forge with Dweomersmith Slagston

Alchemy has always been a vital tool for heroes and housekeepers alike. Predating most known magics and a vital aspect of nearly all modern professions, alchemy is one of Creeds most advanced and diversified sciences. However, I feel our adventurers too often neglect this once-essential tool. Today, we’re going to look at some fundamental alchemical innovations

(This section discusses old alchemical staples and their myriad uses for the modern adventurer, such as disappearing ink, alchemical grease, and powdered water. A sizable chunk of time is spent discussing the art of alchemy, how best to brew large batches of more volatile concoctions, and a few uses for otherwise ruined ingredients.)

As for our discount hauls this season, we’ve got a pretty good treasure trove to dish out, so be sure to contact your handler if anything we’ve got raises your interest. As always, resales are prohibited and discounts of course vary by department and contract, but everything this round’s at a minimum of 9% below standard market rates.

1x Dark Luck Dire Flail with 2 remaining Black wishes (roughly 100,000 gp market value). A unique and powerful item, to be sure. If desired, a Crafter on-staff can transfer the magics to a different non-magical weapon in your possession for a 1,000 gp fee, though such a buyer must of course be sufficiently skilled with using magical devices (testing for such is available)

1x Daystar Fullplate (~96,000 gp market value). A fantastic set of adamantine fullplate, originally built for a somewhat-shorter female humanoid. Purchase comes with a free resizing. If desired, a Crafter on-staff can transfer the magics to a different suit of non-magical armor in your possession for a 1,000 gp fee, though such a buyer must of course be sufficiently skilled with using magical devices (testing for such is available). Reclaimed from an inactive account.

1x Amulet of Natural Armor +5 (50,000 gp market value). An exotic piece with a chain made of carved amber and set with a grouping of petrified chronatog scales. Be warned, this is a Crafter item and once possessed Chronomantic abilities (since stripped under the supervision of the Nine Guardians). The origin of the necklace, beyond what’s stated, is otherwise confidential. Standard humanoid fitting.

Questboard

While your handlers are of course doing their damnedest to keep food on your plate, we always have rumors come in that fall outside of department purview. If any of these rumors turn out to be appropriate for Keeper involvement, all rumors listed below have been approved for due compensation according to sections 32.A of the on-staff field researcher’s contract or 8.B of the mercenary field researcher’s contract. See your handler soon about any interests – first come, first serve.

Alabastra

Mass hallucinations? Rumor says the Golden Argosy – the legendary Keldon longship perched atop the Necropolis – was recently seen flying (yes, that’s right, flying)over Necropolis City, supposedly heading North by North-East. We’ve got a few sources with similar stories, but far too few sightings were reported in a city that massive. We have little data on these sources, but a social butterfly might be able to hunt them down and fight out just what’s going on.

Erathell

Nature fighting back? A small number of pockets of rampant and intense plant growth has been spotted in western Erathell. Initially found only a few miles away from Illania, other pockets have been found roughly 10 miles north-east of Alora and word has come in of more found deeper into the woods, often “protected” by massively overgrown wildlife. No word on exactly what’s causing it, though we may be looking at the footsteps of a Greater Elemental or possibly a major kami. Word has it that local adventurers have already begun pursuing the matter, but we’d love to have some Keeper agents comfortable in the Great Forest take a look.

Fire in the Fields. A group of salamanders (the Outsiders, not the animals) have been seen in and around Chirbury. So far it looks like these visitors have been playing nice, no clue why they’re there though and salamanders are well-known firestarters – creating massive bonfires (occasionally out of towns) as a tribute to the Burning Courts. Any somewhat more-experienced recruits in the area might want to check in on these guys – maybe take some burn ointment, just in case.

Questionable stories? An attack on Anasari just over a week past has left locals shaken, claiming the attack was lead by a monstrous troll who appeared “half-plant” by local accounts. Fortunately, few lives were lost, largely thanks to local Heroes, The Silver Sabers, and a contingent of House Caerwyn’s most senior rangers that were “conveniently” on-site before the attack started , but the Trails of the Elven Lords “miraculously” keeping out the wild majority of the attackers certainly played an important role as well. Official word from Celanthiral says the situation is in-hand, but we say there’s more to this story than they’re letting on. Experienced investigators, report for duty!

Coricona

Dragon down! An intense fight between a younger dragon and a flock of stormkites was spotted just around two months back off the northern coast of Coricona, close to Branist. Locals claim the dragon was a teal-ish white, and that it disappeared below the waves after a massive blast of lightning caught it in the wing, no more than 10 miles off the coast. While I’d be amazed if no one’s gone out to search for the body, we haven’t heard anything about it actually being found yet. Ocean-ready adventurers, this might be a major haul just waiting for you.

Growing steel? A well-recognized smith (and retired adventurer), Steel-Eyes, of the Blacksmith’s Guild claims he’s found a new metal, one you can grow. While growing metals aren’t exactly unheard of, they’re extremely rare and so far haven’t been reproduced by modern metallurgists. Steel-Eyes is hard to miss – half-kitsune, half-catfolk – and is currently stationed in Olmova and is looking for assistants and investors. Disprove him or sign on, we don’t care – just tell us what you find!

Dentyr

Speaking of planar breaches…. A major demon, seemingly pulled through a planar breach, has begun making a home for itself in Dentyr Wastes. Operating at the mouth of the Empty Channel (North of the Greyflame Keep, for our less geographically-inclined). We don’t know much about this guy/gal/thing, except it’s apparently opening up his doors to worshippers. Great, another religion to keep track of. Rumors hold it’s offering seductive luxury to those who join rank. In a place where even water can be scarce? Yeah, shockingly a number of goblins, kobolds, and apparently even a few disillusioned treasure-hunters have joined up after just a few days. Something tells me this religion isn’t going to be all it’s cracked up to be. Someone go kill this guy before the Oni find a new party guest, yeah?

Klurikon

I’m not going to flower this one – rumor holds that the Lich’s Mirror has been found, and is currently being held by a covenant of necromancers down in the Dregs (south-eastern isle of Klurikon). If you’re unfamiliar, the Lich’s Mirror is a hand mirror that was once used as a central focus for the necromantic rituals of the Acolytes of Lim-Dul (big bad old-timey necromancer), and over time absorbed their powerful magics – today, merely showing someone their face in the mirror will begin necrotizing their body, much as if they’d been exposed to the vapors of the Dregs itself. The Keeper’s official stance is that no Keeper will ever be ordered to the Dregs, after our catastrophic losses there nearly half a millennium back. Unofficially – while I’m not technically allowed to use the word “obligated”, I say anyone who thinks they can stand up to the horrors of the Dregs should very seriously consider reporting for this one. Benson, I’m “unofficially” looking at you here buddy – maybe see if the Burning Thorn wants to join up?

Other

The Firelord of the Burning Courts is currently looking for a new Grand Acolyte. The Burning Courts have been without a proper ambassador to Creed since Flamewaker Revla and her apprentice went missing nearly a half-century ago. Apparently, the Pyroclasm has opened for new challengers and the Firelord is anxious to find a replacement. Remember, a mastery of incendiary magics and a desire to serve the good of the Elemental Planes are both a must, and failure will result in your total annihilation! Tell your friends! Warning: Keeper health insurance doesnotcover death by total annihilation.

Keepers in the World

Every season we like to end our newsletter with the accomplishments of our many field researchers, and take time to mention those we’ve lost.

(The report carries on talking about the scattered accomplishments of a number of individuals over the last few months and a few names that sound like adventuring groups, none of which you recognize. The section ends with a handful of mortuaries for the field researchers and mercenaries that died since the last quarterly report.)

There’s something I left out of our conversation when you visited Isryn and I earlier. I’m sorry I didn’t mention this back when you were here, but her loss of focus had left me with some considerable doubts. Understanding the cause now and seeing her progress…seeing her talk with you and the Silver Sabers…I find myself hopeful again. Hopeful that some good can come from the great pain Sable has caused.

I don’t believe Isryn will ever wield this power on her own, let alone master it. Xion’s “attack” may have helped balance her, but I simply don’t think her will is strong enough to ever control this power. She may be find the focus to rein in these outbursts of energy, but…I don’t believe she’ll cross that barrier.

Not on her own, anyways.

I believe there are ways to change Isryn’s situation – powers that could draw off the energies raging within her, others that could help build her up to eventually master them. Isryn often says she wishes this power gone, wishes for her old life. But at the same time, I can see her reaction to the power she’s touching…I believe she’s slowly growing used to it, possibly even enjoying it. I cannot say which path is better for her or for our world, but I believe one must be chosen. Unfortunately, I don’t believe Isryn is in the right state and mind to be making these decisions for herself – she’s conflicted and often confused, her mood swings wildly far too often. Fortunately, from my conversations with her, I believe very strongly she would be receptive to a decision made by those who’ve helped her so much.

I cannot say much, but I have been permitted to let you know the following:

If you’d seek to help her remove this power, seek out the truest devotees of the Jeweled Lady among the dwarves. They will not reveal themselves without good reason to trust you, but I know they will help once you have their attention.

If you seek to help her control this power, seek out the angelic council in the Lands of Light. Their assistance is not lightly given, but I know they have the power to help.

There are other ways…easier ways. But as I’m sure you’ve learned by now, the easiest way is not always the right way. There may of course be similarly good options I haven’t considered, but these are the best options I can think of. Hopefully it is some help to you.

I’m sorry we didn’t get more of a chance to talk while you were here. My love to you all,

- Ms. Farlyne

PS: I’ve given this same information to The Silver Sabers. They seem willing to help after their current quest is set to rest – Simon perhaps most of all – though they’re certainly conflicted on what direction would be for the best.